Binsar - a charming hill station in Uttarakhand

Overview

A small hilly town in Kumano hills of Uttarakhand, Binsar is renowned for its beautiful countryside and pristine natural environs. Located at a distance of 35 km away from Almora, Binsar is also popular for its forest reserve and bird sanctuary. Set at an elevation of 2,480 metres above sea level, amidst oak, pine, deodar and rhododendron forests, Binsar provides a welcome respite to people living in plains. Get the wonderful views of the noted Himalayan peaks from vantage points in Binsar. Besides its natural beauty, Binsar is also known for its historic connection. Binsar has served as the capital of Chanda Raj rules from between 7th century AD to 8th century AD. Plan a trip to Binsar to enjoy a relaxing vacation in the lap of nature. Also get a fine glimpse of the region’s rich past by visiting the historic spots including archeological sites.

Binsar Camping Site

Fast Facts

Main Languages: Garhwali as well as Hindi is widely spoken by the locals.

When to Go: Binsar enjoys a soothing climate almost all around the year. Summer season (April to June) is quite comfortable, while winter season (November to Februar) is chilly. Don’t forget to carry sufficient woolen clothes while visiting Binsar during winters. Light woolen is required during summers, especially in nights.

Local Transport: Thee town and nearby areas can be explored by car / taxi. You can also take leisurely strolls to cover major spots of Binsar.

Currency: Indian Rupee (INR) 1 USD is approximately 48 INR

Voltage: 230V / 50Hz

Time Zone: Indian Standard Time (UTC +5:30)

Location: Jhandi Dhar Hills in Uttarakhand

Altitude: 2,480 metres above sea level

Nearest Metropolis: New Delhi – 380 km away

Eating

North Indian cuisine is usually served by the eateries in and around Binsar. Don’t forget to savour the traditional Kumaoni cuisine, known for its unique aroma. You can find Kumaoni cuisine at small food stalls as well as restaurants in the guest houses and resorts.

Shopping

Shopping in Binsar revolves around locally manufactured handicrafts especially wooden items. Pick up the beautifully carved crafts to carry as a souvenir of Binsar trip. Don’t expect about fixed market or shops in Binsar. You will find vendors around Binsar, who sells a variety of items at impressive rates. Do little bargaining and get the items at cheap prices.

Sightseeing

When talked about sightseeing, every nook and corner of Binsar is an attraction in itself. Situated about 2,400 metres above sea level, Binsar provides a fine opportunity to closely observe the unspoiled nature that is more than sightseeing. However, if you are looking for some specific sightseeing hotspots, then Binsar will not disappoint you.

Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary is the prime attraction of the town. Set up in 1988, the wildlife sanctuary spreads over an area of 45.59 sq. km and provides shelter to plenty of plant and animal species, and more than 200 bird species. Besides wildlife viewing, you can enjoy magnificent view of the Himalayan peaks from the wildlife sanctuary. Zero Point is the best place in Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary to get the amazing views of noted Himalayan peaks, namely Nanda Devi, Kedarnath and Trishul. Binsar Museum is another highlight inside the sanctuary that exhibits flora and fauna of the region, and also provides handy information about the sanctuary.

After exploring the wildlife sanctuary, visit the temples and other attractions in and around Binsar. Just 4 km from Binsar is the temple of Golu Devta, which is famous all over Kumaon region. Also pay a visit to Bineshwar Mahadev Temple, about 8 km away from Binsar. Built in the 16th century, Bineshwar Mahadev Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Situated at a distance of 9 km from Binsar, Kasar Devi Temple is a popular spot among visitors, especially foreigners. Kasar Devi Temple was the house for Dutch Monk (from 1970 – 80) and it is said that the hippie culture got popularity from this temple.

Khali Estate, once the residence of the commissioner of Kumaon (from 1856 to 1884) is now a resort and deserves a visit. The region around Binsar encompasses a rich history, even today you can get a glimpse of the bygone era by visiting the archaeological spots.

Activities

Usually visitors to Binsar spend hours in exploring the famous spots on foot and enjoy a splendid view of the natural surroundings. There are numerous nature trails around Binsar that are ideal for short to long treks. While walking along the trails, you can see colourful birds. Also enjoy breathtaking view of the snow-capped Himalayan mountain ranges from Binsar. The town is home to a well-managed forest reserve, where you can see a variety of floral and faunal species including avian species. Remember to carry a pair of binoculars to get a close view of the birds found in the area. You may also carry a good book for identification of birds.

Events

People in and around Binsar celebrate many festivals round the year. Besides regional and national festivals, people celebrate temple festivals on some specific days of the year. Try to participate in local festivals or events if they fall during your visit. You will get a better understanding of local culture and traditions by seeing the festivities.

Nightlife

Enjoy a bonfire or campfire in the premises of your hotel (guest house). You can also arrange a small party in the night. Apart from these, Binsar doesn’t have any specific nightlife option. It’s better to stay in the hotel (guest house) after the sunset.

Excursions

During Binsar trip, you can take visit nearby tourist attractions by undertaking short excursions. About 35 km away from Binsar is the beautiful town of Almora. One of the famous hilly towns of Uttarakhand, Almora is renowned for its unmatched natural beauty, exquisite handicrafts, rich cultural heritage and varied wildlife. Nanda Devi Temple is a major attraction of Almora that draws visitors in large numbers. You can also visit the hill stations of Nainital and Ranikhet. Kausani, Jageshwar or Chowkori, Bhimtal and Sattal are other popular destinations close to Binsar.

Getting There

Air: The nearest major airport is located in New Delhi, about 380 km away. IGI Airport in New Delhi is well-connected to many cities in India as well as abroad. From IGI Airport taxis / cars can be hired for Binsar. Pantnagar Airport (127 km) is another airport close to Binsar, which is served by limited flight.

Rail: The nearest railhead is Kathgodam Railway Station, approximately 100 km away from Binsar. Kathgodam Railway Station has trains from New Delhi and other cities of North India. From the railway station, you can hire a cab to reach Binsar.

Road: State Highway No 37 connects Binsar with popular destinations in Uttarakhand and North India. Buses of Uttarakhand Road Transport ply to Almore, from there you can hire a taxi or cab to reach Binsar.   

Driving directions: From Delhi – Start from Anand Vihar and take Ghazipur Road. Take a right on Grand Trunk Road (NH 24), followed by NH 58 and SH 39. Further you have to proceed onto NH 24 that connects further with NH 87. After crossing NH 87E take SH 37 to reach Binsar (380 km, 10 hours approx).

Recommended for:

Top 5 Must See

Zero Point: Situated inside Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary, Zero Point is the highest vantage point in Almora district. You can get the best view of the snow-clad Himalayan peaks and beautiful surroundings from this vantage point.

Pariyadeva-Pashan: A popular vantage point in Binsar, Pariyadeva-Pashan offers breathtaking view of the town and nearby areas. The point also houses a stone with cup marks that belongs to the megalithic age. 

Vijaypur - a secluded hill station in Uttarakhand

From Delhi – 475 km

From Ranikhet – 120 km

From Kathgodam – 214 km

Overview – 

Far from the maddening crowds, Vijaypur is perfect place to enjoy a peaceful vacation amidst unspoiled natural environs. Vijaypur is situated atop a 2,050 mtr high ridge, overlooking the picturesque Himalayan range. A secluded place, Vijaypur offers breathtaking views of Himalayan peaks like Nanda Devi, Chaukhamba, Nanda Kot, Neel Kanth, Hathi Parvat, Panchchuli, Trishul and Appi (Annapurna). The town is flanked by a magnificent valley dotted with small hamlets, where people live a relaxed life and no one seems to be in a hurry!  

Vijaypur

Don’t Miss – 

When in Vijaypur enjoy the nature at its best. Watch the sunrise on Nanda Kot…a splendid sight. 

Getting There –

By Rail- Kathgodam railway station (214 km) is the nearest railhead from Vijaypur. Ranikhet Express and Uttarakhand Sampark Kranti Express run between Delhi and Kathgodam. From Kathgodam, take the road to reach Vijaypur, approximately seven hours away.

By Road – From Delhi, take NH 24 to reach Rampur and then turn left for Bilaspur. Move straight through Rudrapur to Haldwani and take NH 87 for Nainital to reach Almora. From there, take the road leading to Bageshwar via Ayar Puni and take a right on the State Highway to Vijaypur via Kanda.

Yamunotri - the sacred dham of Hindus

From Delhi – 487 km

From Dehradun – 172 km

From Rishikesh – 213 km

Overview – 

Perched at an elevation of 3,293 mtr above sea level, Yamunotri is the source of the sacred River Yamuna. Situated in the Garhwal Himalayas of Uttarakhand, Yamunotri is one of the four (char) sacred dhams (places) according to Hindu mythology. According to Hindu mythology, it was the home of an ancient sage - Asit Muni. Thousands of pilgrims flock to the holy shrine here, which remains open between May and November. Yamunotri lies on the western side of the Bandarpunch Mountain (6,315 mtr) close to the Indo-China border. The Yamunotri Temple dedicated to goddess Yamuna and the hot water springs in the vicinity are the major attractions of this pilgrimage destination.  

Yamunotri

Don’t Miss – 

A dip in hot springs and cooking rice in its water are popular rituals performed by the devotees at Yamunotri. Surya Kund, an important thermal spring and Divya Shila, a huge rock pillar are other attractions. Jankichatti located 7 km from Yamunotri is famous for its hot water springs. Hanumanchatti - the confluence of River Yamuna and Hanuman Ganga, at a distance of 13 km, is the starting point for the thrilling Dodi Tal Trek.

Getting There –

Rail – Dehradun (172 km) and Rishikesh (213 km) are the nearest railheads from Yamunotri. Both these railway stations are linked to Delhi by a number of express trains. 

Road – From Delhi, take NH 58 to reach Rishikesh, via Modinagar and Roorkee. The journey takes around 6 hours. From Rishikesh, a 213 km road journey takes one to Hanumanchatti, where the motorable road ends. From here, one has to cover the 13 km trek either on foot or on ponies. Porters and palanquins are available on hire and the route passes through rugged mountains and dense forests. 

Vapi - the industrial town in Southern Gujarat

From Mumbai – 193 km

From Surat – 100 km

Overview - 

Vapi is an industrial town in southern Gujarat, approximately 28 km south of district headquarters Valsad. A fast growing city, Vapi is home to large number of industries such as chemicals, dyes, food products, glass, paints, paper, plastics, pharmaceuticals, packaging, rubber, textiles and woods. Set on the banks of Damanganga River, Vapi serves as a base to visit the union territory of Daman. From Vapi, taxis and auto-rickshaws to Daman are available at regular intervals. 

Vapi Beach

Don’t Miss – 

Hardly 13 km from the industrial township of Vapi, the union territory of Daman is a favourite gateway for vacationers. Far from the hustle and bustle of cities, Daman welcomes discerning holidaymakers with soothing winds, clean white sands, tranquil environs, magnificent forts and massive churches.   

Getting There –

Rail – Vapi Railway Station is under the administrative control of Western Railways. Several intercity express trains connect Vapi with Ahmedabad and Mumbai, including the Shatabdi Express.

Road – Vapi is connected by NH 8 with Mumbai, Surat and other important places of Gujarat. 

Vadodara - the City of Culture

From Mumbai – 448 km

From Ahmedabad – 113 km

Overview - 

Earlier known as Baroda, Vadodara is often referred to as the Sayaji Nagari (Sayaji’s City) or Sanskari Nagari (The City of Culture). Situated on the banks of the River Vishwamitri, Vadodara is famous for the picturesque Laxmi Vilas Palace and Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda. A historic city, Vadodara abounds with magnificent buildings, temples and monuments, old museums and well-maintained gardens. Besides a cultural and educational centre of Gujarat, the city is also home to big industries, shopping malls and multiplexes. 

A historical monument in Vadodara

Don’t Miss - 

Built by Maharaja Sayajirao in 1890, Laxmi Vilas Palace is a splendid Indo – Saracenic style building and a must visit place in Vadodara. The royal family’s residence has a well-ornate Darbar Hall and elegant walls with mosaic decorations. Laxmi Vilas Palace complex sprawling over 700 acres, houses several buildings including the Moti Baug Palace and Maharaj Fateh Singh Musuem which has a fine collection of old armoury and bronze sculptures. Other important places to visit in the city are Baroda Museum, Aurobindo Society, Kirti Mandir, Nazarbaug Palace, Makarpura Palace and Sayajibaug. 

Getting There –

Train – Vadodara Railway Station is a major rail head on the Mumbai – Delhi and Mumbai – Ahmedabad routes, served by several superfast and express trains.

Road – Take the NH 8 from Mumbai, passing through Navsari and Bharuch to reach Vadodara. The city is also connected through Indian National Expressway – 1 (97 km) with Ahmedabad.  

Thane - the suburb of Mumbai

From Mumbai – 35 km

Overview – 

Thane, literally meaning ‘station’ in Marathi, is an industrial town situated on Salsette Island, northeast of Mumbai. Set on the banks of Thane creek, the city is flanked by Yeour Hill and Parsik Hill, on the west and east respectively. Due to its strategic location, the city is a major hub of economic activity and is home to several industries. Thane is dotted with around 30 big and small lakes, making a perfect getaway for people living in Mumbai and nearby areas. Visitors throng the city to enjoy a pleasant break from their busy schedules.

Thane, Mumbai

Don’t Miss – 

While in Thane, visit the Masunda Talao, also called Talao Pali. Considered the most beautiful lake in the city, it offers excellent boating and water scooter facilities. Also visit Upavan Lake, another scenic lake in Thane to refresh yourself.  

Getting There –

Train – Thane railway station is an important railhead of the Central Railways and served by almost all trains running on the Konkan Railway route from Mumbai.  

Road – From Mumbai, a regular bus service to Thane is available at frequent intervals. You may also hire a local taxi from Mumbai to reach Thane.

Air – Mumbai airport is approximately 25 km from Thane, which is connected by numerous flights from important cities of the country. From the airport taxis are available to Thane, the journey takes around 30 minutes. 

Surat - The 'Diamond City' of India

From Mumbai – 263 km

From Ahmedabad – 255 km

Overview – 

Popularly called the ‘Silk City’ or ‘Diamond City’, Surat is renowned world over for its diamond and textile industries. A port city, situated on the left bank of the Tapi River, Surat is also renowned for its rich culture, scrumptious cuisine and numerous places of tourist interest. Chintamani Jain Temple, dating back to 15th century is a must visit place in the city. The temple is known for its delicate wood carvings and paintings and it houses some of the rarest paintings of Jain monk Acharya Hemchandra, King Kumarapal and Solanki King. Other interesting places in the city are Old Fort, Sardar Patel Museum, Dutch Garden, Dutch Cemetery and Choppati. 

Surat, Gujarat

Don’t Miss – 

Savour the traditional local cuisine, which is quite spicy and not typically sweet like Gujarati food usually is. From the city, take excursions to health resorts at Dumas (16 km) and Hajira (28 km), where you can relax and unwind. For a wild experience, visit the Vansada National Park in Valsad district to spot tigers, leopards and other animals. 

Getting There –

Train – Surat railway station is a major railhead of the Western Railways on the Mumbai – Delhi route. The railway station is served by several express and superfast trains from Mumbai and important cities of Gujarat.  

Road – From Mumbai, drive on the NH 8 that takes you to NH 6 (Surat – Kolkata Highway), a 16 km long connector highway to Surat. The city is also linked by the Golden Quadrilateral Highway. The road journey from Mumbai to Surat takes around five hours. 

Solan - the Gateway to Himachal Pradesh

From Delhi – 340 km

From Kalka – 42 km

From Shimla – 52 km

Overview – 

Often referred to as the Gateway of Himachal Pradesh, Solan is a quiet small town, suitable for family trips and romantic vacations alike. Basically an agricultural area, the town is known as the ‘mushroom city of India’, for producing large varieties of mushrooms. Solan is also famous for housing the Mohan Meakins brewery, the oldest in India. Besides being an industrial hub of the state, the town, situated at an average altitude of 1,467 mtr, boasts of numerous old temples, architectural wonders of the colonial era and quaint picnic spots. Sholoni Devi Temple, dedicated to goddess Sholini (after whom the town is named) is a must visit place while in Solan.

Solan, Himachal Pradesh

Don’t Miss – 

For adventure enthusiasts, the River Giri meandering through the town offers some fine angling spots like Mareog, Karkanu and Gaura. Solan is a trekking paradise for nature lovers with hilly and picturesque trails. Some of the major attractions in and around Solan are Jatoli Shiv Temple, Karol Tibba, Meteol Tibba, Kotla Nallah, Yungdrung Tibetan Monastery (close to Nauni) and Dr. Yashwant Singh Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry at Nauni. 

Getting There –

Train – Kalka railway station is the major railhead close to Solan. Board the overnight Kalka Mail from Delhi, which reaches Kalka early in the morning. From Kalka, take the toy train (Kalka – Shimla) to reach Solan. 

Road – From Delhi, drive on NH 1 till Ambala. Further, take the NH 21 and then NH 22 to reach Kalka. Solan is situated on the Shimla – Kalka Highway (NH 22), at a distance of 42 km from Kalka and 52 km from Shimla. From Kalka, buses and taxis are available at regular intervals to Solan. The road journey from Kalka to Solan takes around one and half hours. 

Siana - a small hamlet in Jalore, Rajasthan

From Delhi – 690 km

From Jodhpur – 180 km

From Udaipur – 175 km

Overview – 

Situated 180 km from Jodhpur, Siana is a perfect place for a weekend break, far from the busy city life. Siana is a small hamlet in Jalore district of Rajasthan, around 36 km from district headquarters. A historic place, Siana was ruled by several mighty kingdoms, including the Rajputs. Located in south western Rajasthan, the town is still untouched by modernisation and offers a wonderful chance to see and experience the centuries old traditional lifestyle. 

Don’t Miss – 

Set amidst the Aravalli Hill range, the terrain of Siana consists of a fine blend of sand dunes and auricular lands, which make the area perfect for camel and horse safaris. During your trip, enjoy a pleasant ride on camel or horse back, across the picturesque countryside. Meet local villagers and experience their unique culture and lifestyle. Camping is another exhilarating adventure activity at Siana. Don’t forget to visit the Aisrana range, where the rock formations offer a wonderful sight, against the picturesque backdrop of the setting sun.  

Getting There –

Train – Sirohi Road railway station is the nearest railhead from Siana, connected by a number of trains to Delhi via Jaipur and Udaipur. 

Road – From Delhi, take NH 8 and leave the road at Beawar. From there, take a right towards NH 14 to reach Pali. Further, a state road takes you to Jalore and finally to Siana. The road journey from Delhi to Siana usually takes around 14 hours.

Sawai Madhopur - the gateway to Ranthambore National Park

From Delhi – 435 km

From Jaipur – 180 km

Overview – 

Sawai Madhopur is a small town of Rajasthan state and often referred to as the gateway of Ranthambore National Park, located 12 km away. A historic town, it is named after its founder Maharaja Sawai Madho Singh I of Jaipur. Comprising twin towns of Old City and the Main town, Sawai Madhopur serves as the base to visit Ranthambore National Park. Nestled amidst the Aravalli and Vindhyachal ranges, Ranthambore is a world famous tiger reserve. Besides tigers, Sawai Madhopur is famous for its historic fort. 

Don’t Miss – 

While in Sawai Madhopur, a tiger safari in Ranthambore National Park is a must-do activity in the world’s only dry deciduous tiger habitat. Explore the Park and there are fair chances you’ll spot tigers, mostly around the water streams flowing through the Park’s rocky outcrops. Leopards, hyena, jackals, sloth bears, wild boars, crocodiles and tortoise are other animals which you can see. Ranthambore National Park also provides shelter to more than 250 bird species. Ranthambore Fort, a 10th century fort built by the Chauhans is situated inside the Park and it deserves a visit. 

Getting There –

Train – Sawai Madhopur railway station is an important railhead on the Delhi – Mumbai route. Almost all trains running on this route stop at Sawai Madhopur railway station. From Delhi, a number of trains are available to Sawai Madhopur, including August Kranti Rajdhani Express, Golden Temple, Jan Shatabdi Express and Intercity Express. 

Road – From Delhi, drive on the Delhi – Jaipur Highway to reach Jaipur. The 265 km long journey to Jaipur should take around five hours. From Jaipur, NH 12 takes you to Tonk and then take a left to reach Sawai Madhopur. The road trip from Jaipur to Sawai Madhopur takes approximately four hours.  

Mandvi - a port city in Gujarat

Location: Kachchha district of Gujarat

Distance: 450 km from Ahmedabad, 100 km from Mumbai

Popular As: A port city

Mandvi, Gujarat

Getting There –

By Air – Bhuj Airport, at a distance of 55 km is the nearest airport from Mandvi. Jet Airways and Kingfisher operate daily flights between Mumbai and Mandvi. From Bhuj, you have to take the road journey to reach Mandvi, approximately one hour away.

By Rail – The nearest railhead is located at Bhuj (56 km), served by a number of trains from Mumbai and Ahmedabad. Kutch Express, Bandra – Bhuj Express and Pune – Bhuj Express run between Bhuj and Mumbai.

By Road – From Mumbai, take NH 8 to reach Ahmedabad. Then, switch onto NH 8 A to reach Mandvi, via Limbdi, Wankaner, Morbi, Anjar and Mundra. The road journey from Mumbai to Mandvi is quite lengthy, so you can take a day break in Ahmedabad. Better, you travel by train to reach Bhuj, the major railhead close to Mandvi.

Overview –

Mandvi is a port city located in Kachchh district of Gujarat. Once a major port of the region, the city now serves as an excellent weekend break destination. Due to its strategic location close to the Arabian Sea, Mandvi enjoys a pleasant climate round the year. Tourists flock the city in large numbers, to enjoy a relaxed vacation, away from hustle and bustle of the cities. Mandvi also served as the summer retreat of the maharajas (kings) of Kutch. Even today, the remains of the bygone era can be seen across the old city. Mandvi is famous for its 400-year-old ship building industry, you can still see the skilled carpenters building fishing boats by traditional techniques.

Don’t Miss –

Visit the Vijay Vilas Palace, the major attraction at Mandvi. Set amidst the well-laid gardens, the royal palace has a private beach, marble fountains and interesting water channels. Built in 1920, Vijay Vilas Palace is known for its excellent architecture and eco-friendly pristine beauty. Also pay a visit to Mandvi Beach, considered among the most beautiful beaches in Gujarat. Other famous attractions are Wind Farms, Rukmavati Bridge, Topansar Lake, Shyamji Krishna Verma Smarak and Bandhni Bazaar.

Mandi - A beautiful hill station in Himachal

Location: Himachal Pradesh

Distance: 425 km from Delhi

Popular As: Hill Station

Mandi, Himachal Pradesh

Getting There –

By Rail – Kalka railway station is the nearest railhead from Mandi. Kalka Shatabadi, Howrah - Kalka Mail, Paschim Express and Himalayan Queen run between Delhi and Kalka. From Kalka, you can reach Mandi by hiring a taxi, approximately four hours away. 

By Road – From Delhi, NH 1 takes you to Ambala. Further, switch onto NH 21 to reach Zirakpur, ahead of Chandigarh. From there, take a right onto NH 22 leading to Pinjaur. Then, proceed on the NH 21 A, connecting further to NH 21. Finally, NH 21 takes you to Mandi via Bilaspur. The road journey from Delhi to Mandi should take around 12 hours.  

Overview – 

Mandi is a small hill town, situated in the north Indian state of Himachal Pradesh. Set at an altitude of 800 mtrs above sea level, the town is an ideal getaway for a quiet vacation. Established on the banks of Beas River, Mandi is known for its historic as well as commercial values. A fast developing town, Mandi is home to around 100 old and new temples, mostly dedicated to Lord Shiva and goddess Kali. In fact, due to large number of temples and its strategic location along Beas River, the town is fondly referred as 'Chhoti (Small) Kashi'. 

Don’t Miss – 

While in Mandi, must visit the old palaces to get a glimpse of ‘colonial’ architecture. Visit the temples around the town, known for their exquisite carvings and religious significance. Besides, for their historical importance, a number of temples in Mandi have been declared ‘protected monuments’ by ASI (Archaeological Survey of India). Panchvaktra Temple, Ardhnareshwar Temple, Bhima Kali Temple, Tarna Temple and Triloknath Temple are important temples. The historic Gurdwara Govind Singh, Kangri Dhar and Sunken Garden are other must visit places. 

Mandawa - The town of magnificent fort and havelis

Location: Jhunjhuni district of Rajasthan

Distance: 250 km from Delhi, 170 km from Jaipur

Popular For: Magnificent Fort and havelis

Picturesque Mandawa Castle

Getting There –

By Road – From Delhi, drive on NH 8 till Bahror. Then, take a right onto the state road to reach Namaul. Further, turn left and drive on the road leading to Chirawa. From there, again take a left onto the road towards Jhunjhunu, which takes you straight to Mandawa. The road journey from Delhi to Mandawa takes around six hours. 

Overview – 

Manawa is a historic town, situated in Jhunjhuni district of Rajasthan, about 170 km north of Jaipur. A part of the Shekhawati region, the town is renowned for its magnificent fort and picturesque havelis (mansions). Mandawa has also been referred to as the ‘open art gallery’, for housing exquisite havelis, with elegantly painted walls. Mandawa Fort is the principal landmark of the town, adorned with beautiful frescoes and an arched gateway. A trip to the town provides you a wonderful chance to see the architectural masterpieces and artistic genius.

Don’t Miss – 

Mandawa Fort is a must visit place, which is now operational as a heritage hotel. Built in the 18th century by Thakur Nawal Singh, the fort has tastefully decorated rooms with paintings of Lord Krishna, delicate carvings and excellent mirror work. You can see rare antiques and paintings in the Durbar Hall of the palace. 

Havelis are other major attractions, popular among them are Hanuman Prasad Goenka Haveli, Goenka Double Haveli, Gulab Rai Ladia Haveli, Jhunjhunwala Haveli, Murmuria Haveli and Mohan Lal Saraf Haveli. Also, pay a visit to Thakurji Temple, known for its impressive murals. 

Pataudi - the home of picturesque Pataudi Palace

Location: Gurgaon district of Haryana

Distance: 70 km from Delhi

Popular for: Pataudi Palace

Pataudi Place, Gurgaon

Getting There –

By Road – From Delhi, take NH 8 to reach Gurgaon. Further, the same road takes you to Bahora Kalan. Then, turn towards right on the state road leading straight to Pataudi. The journey should take around one and half hours. 

Overview – 

Pataudi is small town in Gurgaon district of Haryana. Located just 70 km from Delhi, the town draws tourists as well as corporates for a quaint weekend break. During the pre-independence era, Pataudi was a princely state of the same name. Founded in 1806 by Faiz Talab Khan, the town is now the home of the famous Indian cricketer Nawab Mansur Ali Khan Pataudi. The royal family has a grand palace at Pataudi, called the Pataudi Palace. 

Don’t Miss – 

Experience the royal splendour of the old days at Pataudi Palace. Constructed by Nawab Ibrahim Ali Khan in 1935, the magnificent palace sprawls over an area of 25 acre, amidst the peaceful and fresh atmosphere. An oasis in the verdant countryside of Pataudi, the luxurious palace along with its exquisite exterior has elegant verandahs, spacious bedrooms, old-style baths, well-maintained gardens and a massive conference room. The grand palace is a fine venue for meetings, family gatherings and weekend breaks. Remember, the palace can be book only for a group. 

Malvan - A picturesque secluded town of Maharashtra

Location: Sindhudurg district of Maharashtra

Distance: 510 km from Mumbai

Popular As: A picturesque secluded town

Malvan Beach

Getting There –

By Train – Kudal railway station is the nearest railhead from Malvan. Jan Shatabadi Express, Konkan Kanya Express and Matshya Gandha Express are some of the important trains connecting Mumbai to Kudal. From the Kudal railway station, you can hire a taxi to reach Malvan. 

By Road – From Mumbai, drive on NH 17 till Kasal. Then, take a right onto the State Highway to reach Malvan. The road journey from Mumbai to Malvan usually takes around 12 hours. Buses of Maharashtra State Transport and private operators ply from Mumbai to Malvan.

Overview – 

Malvan also spelled Malwan, is a port town situated in Sindhudurg district of Maharashtra. Situated along the cool blue Arabian Sea, the town is flanked by three tiny creeks, namely Karli, Kalavali and Kolamb. Far from the busy city life, the picturesque town makes a perfect getaway for discerning travellers. Malvan welcomes visitors with its secluded beaches and tranquil environs, for a laid back vacation. Besides, the historic town is also famous for its rich culture and tradition, signified by peculiar dialect and cuisine.     

Don’t Miss – 

The magnificent Sindhudurg Fort is the main landmark of the town. Visit the popular beaches like Tarkali Beach, Chiwala Beach and Tondavali Beach to rejuvenate your mind and body. When visiting the town, don’t forget to savour the local cuisine, including sweets such as Khaja and Ladoos. Other must visit places include the Rock Garden, Malvan (marine) Wildlife Sanctuary, Barrister Nath Pai Sevangan and Jai Ganesh Mandir. Visit the nearby town Vengurla, home to several interesting temples, forts and beaches.  

Ludhiana - The Manchester of India

Location: Punjab

Distance: 310 km from Delhi

Popular As: Manchester of India

Ludhiana

Getting There –

By Train – Ludhiana railway station is a major railhead on the Delhi – Amritsar route. The railway station is connected to Delhi by several express and superfast trains. 

By Road – National Highway 1 connects Ludhiana to Delhi via Ambala. The road journey from Delhi to Ludhiana generally takes around seven hours. 

Overview – 

Ludhiana is a major city located in the state of Punjab. An industrial hub, Ludhiana is also called the ‘Manchester of India’. The city is dotted with numerous big and small industries, like knitwear factories, yarn mills, bicycle manufacturing factories and more. Ludhiana is also a popular tourist destination and draws tourists in large number round the year. Consisting of the Old City and the New City, the city is famous for its rich history, over 500 years old. 

Don’t Miss – 

While in Ludhiana, don’t forget to buy woollen garments. Visit popular attractions of the city, namely Water Park, Hardy World, Dream Land, Rose Garden and Maharaja Ranjit Singh Museum. From Ludhiana, also visit the nearby town of Ferozpur, known for its holy shrines and historic sites.

Faizabad - A historic town of Uttar Pradesh

Location: Uttar Pradesh

Distance: 550 km from Delhi, 125 km from Lucknow

Faizabad Fort

Getting There –
By Air – The nearest airport in situated in Lucknow (128 km), connected by a number of daily flights to Delhi. From Lucknow, you can either take the road or rail journey to reach Faizabad, approximately three hours away.

By Train – Faizabad railway station is an important railhead of the Northern Railways. Kaifiyat Express and Saryuyamuna Express run between Delhi and Faizabad. The railway station is also well- linked to Lucknow and Varanasi railway stations by several trains.

By Road – From Delhi, drive on NH 91or NH 2 to reach Kanpur. Proceed further on NH 25 to Lucknow and then switch onto NH 28 leading straight to Faizabad town. The road journey from Delhi to Faizabad should take around 12 hours.

Overview – 
Faizabad is a town in the north Indian state of Uttar Pradesh. Set on the banks of Saryu River, the town is famous for its sister town Ayodhya (6 km away), believed to be the birthplace of Lord Rama. A historic town, Faizabad was the erstwhile capital of the Nawabs of Awadh, and known for its rich culture and traditions. Even today, you can see fine glimpse of the bygone era in the magnificent monuments sprawl across Faizabad and Ayodhya. The Tomb of Bahu Begum and Gulab Bari are prime attractions in Faizabad town.

Don’t Miss – 
Gulab Bari, literally meaning ‘Garden of Roses’, is a must visit place. The garden has a fine collection of roses and houses a mausoleum in its complex. Ghanta Ghar (clock house), situated in the heart of city is another attraction of Faizabad. Next to Ghanta Ghar, move towards the central market for some shopping. Guptar Ghat and Hanuman Garhi are other places of tourist interest. Also, take an excursion to Ayodhya, famous for its Hindu temples.

Nagpur - the Orange city of India

Location: Maharashtra

Distance: 850 km from Mumbai

Popular As: Orange city

Nagpur

Getting There –

By Air – Babasaheb Ambedkar International Airport of Nagpur is connected by a number of flights to Mumbai. Kingfisher, IndiGo, JetLite and Air India operate daily flights between Mumbai and Nagpur. 

By Train – Nagpur railway station is a major railhead of the Central Railways and served by several trains from Mumbai. Nandigram Express, Vidrabha Express, Sewagram Express and Gitanjali Express are some important trains running between Mumbai and Nagpur.   

By Road – From Mumbai, NH 3 takes you to Dhule via Nasik. Then, take a right onto NH 6 to reach Nasik via Jalaon, Akola, Amravati. The journey from Mumbai to Nagpur usually takes around 20 hours, so, avoid the road journey.   

Overview – 

Nagpur, popularly known as the ‘Orange City’, is a major city in the West Indian state of Maharashtra. Also referred to as the ‘second capital of Maharashtra’, Nagpur is an important commercial and political centre of the state. Founded by the Gond Raja Bakht Buland in the 18th century, the city derives its name from the Nag River, flowing through the Old City. Nagpur is home to a number of natural and man-made lakes, which draw visitors in large numbers for a weekend break. Ambazari Lake Gorewada Lake, Futala Lake and Telangkhedi Lake are the natural lakes sprawling across Nagpur. While, the famous man-made lakes in the city are Gandhisagar Lake and Sonegaon Lake. 

Don’t Miss – 

When in Nagpur, visit the Ambazari Lake, the biggest lake in the city. Set on the western outskirts of the city, the lake is flanked by a beautiful garden. Enjoy an exhilarating boat ride on the lake or a pleasant leisurely walk along the garden. Visit the famous Seminary Hill, 6 km from the Old City, to get a breathtaking view of the city and the picturesque surroundings. Seminary Hill is also home to Balaji Temple, dedicated to Shri Balaji. Other must visit places in and around Nagpur include Maharaj Bagh and Zoo, Sitabuldi Fort, Sri Poddareshwar Ram Mandir, Totladoh, Ramtek (50 km) and Pench National Park (85 km). 

Marchula - a picturesque weekend getaway from Delhi

Location: Uttarakhand

Distance: 250 km from Delhi

Popular for: Natural beauty

Marchula, Uttarakhand

Getting There –

By Train – Ramnagar railway station is the nearest railhead. From Delhi, Ranikhet Express and Uttarakhand Sampark Kranti Express run daily to Ramnagar. Further, you have to take road journey to reach Marchula, about 40 km away. 

By Road – From Delhi, drive on NH till Moradabad. Then, take a left onto the State Highway to reach Ramnagar via Kashipur. From there, drive further to reach Marchula, approximately one and half hours away. 

Overview – 

A weekend break in tiger country, amidst the dense forest is a thrilling experience. If you are looking for such wild getaway and some never before wild experiences, then Marchula is an ideal destination for you. Marchula is a small hamlet, located 40 km away from Ramnagar and approximately 17 km from Dhangadi, the entrance to the Corbett National Park. Situated on the banks of Ramganga River, Marchula is surrounded by lofty mountains and thick forests. Besides, the pristine environs, the soothing sound of the gushing river and the occasional sightings of tiger, leopard or deer, altogether make Marchula a perfect place for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike.   

Don’t Miss – 

Perched 500 mtr above sea level, Marchula offers lots of exciting adventure activities to indulge in. You can take a leisurely walk along the hilly trails, enjoy a swim in the gushing stream or a tiger safari. However, the most amazing feature of Marchula is angling in the River Ramganga, home to the famous fish – Mahaseer, in addition to Goonj and Trout. Fishing at Marchula is of course a fun-filled activity, but, you need be patient and skilful for a good catch. It is mandatory to avail a license before the fishing expedition. Also cross the river to see the crocodiles living in a fresh water pool. 

Ganpatipule - a weekend getaway from Mumbai

A popular weekend getaway from Mumbai, Ganpatipule is situated on the beautiful Konkan coast in Ratnagiri district of Maharasthra. Named after the Hindu god Ganapati, Ganpatipule abounds with picturesque countryside that draws vacationers including families with kids round the year. While the clean sandy beach, cool blue sea, gentle waves and soothing breeze thrills children and elders a lot, the wonderful sightseeing spots equally amaze all types of travellers. 

Ganpatipule

The unmatched natural beauty of Ganpatipule is complimented by the rich historic past and cultural heritage. Known for its religious as well as architectural significances, Ganpati Temple is thronged by devotees and common travellers in large numbers. Close to Ganpati Temple, ‘Paawas’ is a religious spot and quite popular among visitors to Ganpatipule. Also take short excursions with your kids and cover tourist spots like Bhandarpule, Malgund and Jaygard Fort.

So, don’t wait and plan a trip to Ganpatipule this Dussera vacation with your family members. Once you are in Ganpatipule there is no any limit of fun and enjoyment. Let your children free and allow them to indulge in a wide array of activities along the 12 km sandy stretch of Ganpatipule Beach. Don’t forget to savour delicious fruits plucked directly from the orchards such as mango, jackfruit, betel nut, coconut and banana. Catch a bus or hire a private vehicle to reach Ganpatipule from Mumbai.